1998 Dodge Caravan Outer Tie Rods

ANGELA15517

MEMBER
1998 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
175,000 MILES

I took my car in to get the water pump replaced(Which cost me 250 bucks. Yikes!) And they told me that the thunking and vibration in the front was due to the outer tie rods being very loose, and need to be replaced. Is this costly? They couldnt give me an estimate. And is it something I can do myself? Also, they said that my heater tubes need immediate attention. What the heck is that? Help!

Friday, October 9th, 2009 AT 9:37 AM

1 Reply

JALOPYPAPA

MEMBER
467 POSTS

Don't know about cost. I would hope no more than $150 each (one on each side--they don't usually both wear out at the same time). If they're that loose, it could be a safety concern. Not too hard for a DIY-er to replace. Will still need shop to do wheel alignment afterward, though (which adds another $70 or so to the cost).

Heater tubes connect coolant passages of engine to heater hoses and heater. Not sure why they'd need immediate attention unless leaking or so rusty they look about to. Again, not something you want to just let go, given potential harm to engine if it overheats.

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Friday, October 9th, 2009 AT 11:58 AM